Dear Parishioners,

Now that Christmas 2022 is in our rearview mirror, Lent 2023 is coming up ahead of us. We are starting the planning for Lent and my goal is to start promoting things in time for you to reflect on what you would like to do during Lent. Know that it will include adding a daily evening Mass with the hopes that many who cannot make Mass early in the morning can come after work or before supper. Lent is a time for increased prayer and our parish has always included Holy Mass as a significant way to do so. That is why we priests want to support you in your efforts. It is our hope that Lent will have enough opportunities for every person in the parish who is looking for something and that they will find it meaningful. So, stay tuned.

We are starting to address the many issues around the census data in our parish. It seems that so much of our records are out of date or inaccurate, that they are not helpful in reaching out to parishioners or to be effective. The first attempt will include the formation of a team of people after the style of Sister Mary Michael Fox’s recommendation. Please know that if people from the parish are trying to be in touch with you, it is because we would like to update our records. The old plan of priests going to homes is impossible, not just because of the fewer number of priests but also because of the fewer number of people home during the day as well.

Along with the census update, we are also looking to strengthen our ministry to nursing homes and the home bound. We thank Fr. Samy for taking on the position to help with Masses at nursing homes and organizing lay ministries at residential care facilities. I am sure that we will be asking if anyone feels called to help, to come forward and join our efforts to tend to the sick and elderly in our parish. More to come on this front as well.

Peace, Fr. Daniel